A syndrome is a set of symptoms or characteristics that usually appear together and suggest a particular disease or condition. It can also describe a pattern of behaviors or features in non-medical situations.
From Late Latin 'syndroma', from Greek 'syndromē' meaning 'a running together', from 'syn-' (together) and 'dramein' (to run). It originally meant things that 'run together' or occur at the same time.
A syndrome is like a constellation: separate stars (symptoms) that we connect into a recognizable pattern. Sometimes doctors know the pattern long before they fully understand the cause behind it.
Some syndromes have been named and framed in gendered ways, such as “hysteria” in the past or “hysterical” disorders disproportionately assigned to women, and “imposter syndrome” often used to individualize structural bias women face in workplaces. Gender bias has also influenced which symptom clusters are studied and labeled as syndromes.
Use “syndrome” carefully, avoiding pathologizing language about gendered experiences; distinguish between individual psychology and systemic discrimination.
["condition","pattern of symptoms","clinical presentation"]
When discussing syndromes like imposter syndrome, note how women and marginalized groups have highlighted structural barriers behind these feelings.
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